In an intimate interview with PEOPLE magazine, the legendary actor and comedian Billy Crystal reflects on his enduring marriage to Janice Crystal, highlighting the bond that has lasted for more than five decades. The couple’s relationship, which began when they met in their teenage years, serves as an inspiring love story amidst the backdrop of Crystal’s illustrious career in comedy and film.
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Crystal, now 78, fondly reminisces about the moment he first set eyes on Janice. “The first time I saw her, I knew,” he states, recalling how he was captivated by her confident stride. Janice was just 17 at the time, and she remembers the encounter vividly. “He was the cutest, funniest boy I had ever met,” she says. Their chemistry was immediate, leading to their first date at Shea Stadium for a Mets game, a decision that, despite potential backlash from Yankees fans, set the stage for their life together.
The couple exchanged vows on June 4, 1970, just as Billy’s stand-up career began to gain traction. Over the years, they welcomed two daughters into their family, Jenny, who is now 53, and Lindsay, aged 48. Janice recalls the early days, noting, “From the first year, I knew he had ‘it’,” referring to his relentless drive to excel in comedy. The couple often shared moments where Billy would test his material on Janice and their young daughter, even when she was too little to understand.
Billy’s latest project, a one-man show titled “860,” is set to launch on October 21 at the Imperial Theatre on Broadway. The title pays homage to the couple’s home of 46 years in the Palisades, which they sadly lost to wildfires earlier this year. In the show, Crystal reflects on their life together, filled with cherished memories and the sorrow of losing their family home.
The show promises a mix of humour and poignant storytelling, a reflection of how Crystal has always managed to blend comedy with heartfelt narratives. “It’s always been amazing to me to see how he can turn pain into art,” observes Janice, who is also a producer for the show. “I love watching an audience laugh hard and then be moved to tears. This is his gift.” She describes the creative process as healing, both for Billy and for himself as an artist.
Alongside the laughter that Crystal inspires, his wife recognises the profound messages within his performances. She praises him for wanting to share their experiences, illustrating how courage and humour can help people navigate through tough times. “He wanted to tell about our loss to show how inner strength and humour can get you through the most difficult times,” she says.
Their playful banter suggests a deep affection and mutual respect. Reflecting on their relationship’s longevity, Billy jokes about their first date occurring “60 years ago, during the Johnson administration.” He elaborates on Janice’s many remarkable qualities, stating, “When you can’t describe someone, that’s how big it is. Hilarious, charming, beautiful, loving, nurturing…” His admiration for her is evident, and he adds, “She’s the greatest grandmother. I watch her sometimes, and I go, ‘Where does she find that joy?’”
When asked about the insights he has gained regarding marriage and love, Billy keeps his response simple yet profound. He states, “What have I learned? Oh, God. It’s possible. I’ll leave it at that.” This succinct remark underscores the essence of their relationship, one built on love, laughter, and an enduring partnership.
Crystal’s one-man show will run for a limited engagement of 14 weeks, concluding on January 3. Tickets are likely to be in high demand given his popularity, and the show promises to be a blend of humour and heartfelt reminiscence that appeals to a broad audience.
For those eager to delve deeper into Crystal’s fascinating journey and the stories behind his latest project, an exclusive interview can be found on the PEOPLE app, with further insights featured in the latest print edition of PEOPLE magazine, which hits newsstands on Friday.